Hi guys. Is the air lock problem on the ballast tanks due
to the line from tank to valve being too long? Or is it that the valve
has a length of line above it that holds water ?
I know that the line can't have any low spots in it, or even just run
level, but must have a continuous up-slope. I remember Gary saying his
original installation had a low/level spot that trapped a little water and
effectively plugged the line, but he fixed it by moving the valve higher.
His valves are located outside the tower, with the
valve handles inside and a seal on the valve handle shaft. It's a
nice clean installation.
I am planning on running the lines into the sub, and using a
''T'' with air line to blow the tanks, and the line exiting the sub near the
top of the hull. This method has the same number of thru-hulls, but has
more valves. One on each thru-hull, and one on the ''T'' for the air line. (
three valves for each tank.)
I think Gary's has a separate air line going to the tank for
blowing dry so basically one thru-hull for the air line and one for the
valve handle shaft.
My ballast tanks are several inches higher at the connection, and I'm
hoping that with the short length of the plumbing, I should be able to avoid
any blockage.
The hole in the bottom of the tanks is low and 3 inch diameter. I was
planning on using a 1/2 inch thru-hull for releasing the air. Does anyone
think that's too small ?
I'll try to put a sketch of the system up so you guys can comment on
it.
Frank D.